The Historic Journey of Saint Mark's Church: From 1847 to Modern-Day Philadelphia

The Origins of Saint Mark’s Church

Saint Mark’s Church in Philadelphia traces its origins to a group of forward-thinking Anglicans in 1847. A diverse group of relatively young parishioners, led by George Zantzinger, gathered in his home on 16th and Locust Streets, then located in the western suburbs of the city. This group of individuals, all members of churches on the east side of Broad Street, were inspired by the spiritual ideals of the Oxford Movement, which emphasized a return to traditional liturgical practices, ceremonial worship, and a focus on historical Christian values. Their vision was to create a new kind of church—one that would embrace both the Anglican tradition and the rich architecture of the high Gothic period. The church’s design, shaped by the Scottish architect John Notman, was based on medieval plans, and Saint Mark’s first service was held on October 21, 1849, in a building still under construction. The spire was completed in 1851, making Saint Mark’s the tallest structure west of Broad Street.

A Vision of Liturgy and Leadership

The early leadership of Saint Mark’s Church was instrumental in shaping its spiritual and physical identity. Henry Reed, a prominent literary scholar and the man who chaired the church’s founding meeting, was deeply committed to the principles of the Oxford Movement, particularly the use of the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. A personal friend of poet William Wordsworth, Reed’s commitment to the spiritual and cultural mission of the church was evident in his vision. Unfortunately, Reed’s life was tragically cut short when he died in a shipwreck in 1854, but his legacy lives on in the church’s worship practices and its iconic stained-glass window of Christ and Saint Peter on the Sea of Galilee, installed in his memory. Over the years, the church saw periods of growth and change, with notable figures such as General George Meade, the victor at Gettysburg, attending services here. The church also embraced social initiatives, such as founding a Parish Employment Society and providing outreach through the establishment of a workingman’s club.

Growth and Challenges in the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries

As the neighborhood around Saint Mark’s transformed in the late 19th century, the church adapted to meet the evolving needs of the community. Under the guidance of Rector Eugene Hoffman, the church expanded its educational and charitable outreach, including the creation of a Parochial School and various societies focused on social welfare. The period also saw the installation of significant architectural additions, including a new baptismal font in 1884 and the Lady Chapel, dedicated in 1902 as a memorial to Fernanda Wanamaker, wife of retail magnate Rodman Wanamaker. The Lady Chapel, built in the Late Decorated Gothic style, became a celebrated feature of the church, with its alabaster altar and intricate carvings. Despite challenges posed by the changing urban landscape and the decline of the neighborhood’s residential character, Saint Mark’s maintained a vital presence in the community. By the time of its fiftieth anniversary in 1899, the church had grown into one of the most active and influential Anglo-Catholic congregations in America.

Renewal and Outreach in the 20th and 21st Centuries

The 20th century brought both hardships and renewal to Saint Mark’s Church. Following World War I, the church faced a number of challenges, including the closure of its parochial school and the loss of members due to migration to the suburbs. However, under the leadership of Rector Alfred Mortimer, the church underwent significant restoration, transforming it into a place of high ecclesiastical beauty, with the addition of stained glass windows, an ornate pulpit, and an expanded organ. After World War II, Saint Mark’s, like many urban parishes, had to adapt to changing demographics. In the postwar years, Rector William Dunphy worked to stabilize the parish, renovating its physical space and reinforcing its music ministry. During the 1980s and 1990s, under the leadership of Father Charles Moore and later Father Richard Alton, Saint Mark’s experienced a resurgence. The church became a hub for social action, including outreach programs for the homeless and support for those affected by the AIDS crisis. The revitalization efforts also included extensive building repairs, and the church was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. More recently, under the leadership of Father Sean Mullen, the church has continued its mission of outreach and community service, including the establishment of St. James School, a faith-based middle school in North Philadelphia. Today, Saint Mark’s remains a vital center of worship, education, and social service in the heart of Philadelphia.